Today arch-rivals Ferrari and Porsche have revealed two of the industry's worst kept secrets; the 458 Spider and the '991' generation of the 911 Carrera respectively.
The 458 Spider joins the 458 Italia in the Ferrari's mid-engined line-up. It shares the same 4.5 litre, 570 bhp V8 engine with the fixed-head model that was introduced two years earlier. All new is a Ferrari patented roof system that consists of a fully retractable hard-top. According to the Italian manufacturer, this configuration is 25 kg (55 lbs) lighter than a fabric alternative and it can be opened in just 14 seconds. Another benefit is some additional luggage space created behind the seats. Much effort has gone into sound proofing and a normal conversation should be possible at speeds of up to 200 km/h (125 mph). The Ferrari 458 Spider should hit the showrooms soon after its public debut at the IAA next month.
Also making their world premier in Frankfurt are the all new 911 Carrera and 911 Carrera S. As with all previous generations of Porsche's iconic sports car, the new car is an evolution of the existing '997' model. The single biggest change is the 100 mm (3.9 inches) added to the car's wheelbase. At the same time the extensive use of aluminium in the chassis and body design have ensured that the latest 911 is 45 kg (99 lbs) lighter than its predecessor. Familiar engines will power the new machines; the Carrera S will feature a 400 hp flat six, while the entry-level 911 Carrera employs the same 350 bhp engine used by the outgoing Carrera. Both versions come with a seven-speed manual as standard with a PDK (double clutch) gearbox available as an option.

Enjoy the links:

2011 Ferrari 458 Spider - Images, Specifications and Information

2011 Porsche 911 Carrera S - Images, Specifications and Information

2011 Porsche 911 Carrera - Images, Specifications and Information